Windows Defender is a built-in Windows anti-malware tool that provides real-time protection against the many types of malware threats. These include viruses, ransomware, spyware, adware, rootkits, worms, and Trojans.
Viruses: A virus is a malicious software that replicates itself and can be spread to other computers. It can corrupt files and cause serious damage to systems. Windows Defender is able to detect and remove viruses by running frequent scans and by using a signature-based and heuristic-based detection engine.
Ransomware: Ransomware is malicious software designed to block access to a user’s computer or network resources until they pay a ransom to the attacker. Windows Defender is able to identify and eliminate ransomware by blocking malicious processes, identifying potentially dangerous websites, and monitoring suspicious activities.
Spyware: Spyware is malicious software used to track a user’s activity, steal their personal information, or monitor their system. Windows Defender is able to detect and remove spyware by monitoring registry entries and tracking suspect program activities.
Adware: Adware is a type of malware that displays intrusive popup ads when browsing on the internet. Windows Defender uses heuristic analysis to detect and block adware by scanning for malicious URLs, suspect software, and potentially malicious web pages.
Rootkits: Rootkits are a type of malicious software designed to gain high-level access to the operating system. Windows Defender detects and removes rootkits by monitoring system activities and auditing common security-related events such as program installation and system startup.
Worms: Worms are malicious programs that replicate themselves and spread throughout a network. Windows Defender is able to identify and eliminate worms by analyzing system traffic and by monitoring downloads from unknown websites.
Trojans: Trojans are malicious programs that masquerade as legitimate programs and install malware onto a computer. Windows Defender is able to detect and remove Trojans by inspecting files for malicious code, scanning email attachments for threats, and monitoring for suspicious activities.